Pakistan and Afghanistan are set to clash in the final of the UAE T20 Tri-Series 2025 at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Sunday, September 7. Both teams have impressed throughout the series, with Pakistan topping the table and Afghanistan following closely behind.
In their last match, Afghanistan secured a thrilling victory against the United Arab Emirates, posting a total of 170/4. The UAE fought hard but fell short, finishing with 166/5, giving Afghanistan the win by four runs. Ibrahim Zadran was the standout performer, scoring 48 runs off 35 deliveries and earning the Player of the Match award.
On the other hand, Pakistan put on a dominant display in their previous match against the UAE, scoring 171/5. Fakhar Zaman played a crucial role, smashing an unbeaten 77 runs off just 44 deliveries. The UAE struggled to keep up, finishing with 140/7 and losing the game by 31 runs.
Pitch Report
The Sharjah Cricket Stadium pitch is expected to favor the batsmen, with an average first innings score of 181 runs in the last 10 matches. Teams batting first have had the upper hand, winning seven out of the last 10 games. Both pacers and spinners are likely to find assistance from the surface.
Head-to-Head Record
Pakistan and Afghanistan have a history of competitive matches, with both teams looking to outperform each other in the final. The predicted playing XIs for the match include key players such as Ibrahim Zadran for Afghanistan and Rashid Khan for Afghanistan.
Probable Top Performers
Ibrahim Zadran has been in exceptional form throughout the series, scoring 185 runs at an average of 46.25 and a strike rate of 141.22. He is the highest run-scorer for Afghanistan against Pakistan in T20Is. Meanwhile, Rashid Khan has been a standout bowler, taking six wickets at an average of 12.83 and an economy rate of 6.41.
Today’s Match Prediction
Based on current form and performances, Pakistan is favored to win the final. The match predictions outline possible scenarios, with Pakistan winning if they bat first and score between 160-170 runs, or Afghanistan taking the victory if they bat first and post a total of 165-175 runs.
In conclusion, the final of the UAE T20 Tri-Series promises to be an exciting and closely contested match between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Fans can expect a thrilling encounter as both teams look to claim the title. Stay tuned for live updates and action from the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Sunday.
### Key Matchup: Ibrahim Zadran vs. Pakistan Bowlers
One of the key matchups to watch in the final of the UAE T20 Tri-Series is between Afghanistan’s Ibrahim Zadran and Pakistan’s bowlers. Zadran’s aggressive batting style has been a thorn in the side of opposing teams throughout the series. His ability to take on the bowlers from the outset and accelerate the run rate in the middle overs makes him a dangerous batsman to contend with.
Pakistan’s bowlers will need to come up with a strategic plan to contain Zadran and not allow him to settle at the crease. Players like Shaheen Afridi and Shadab Khan will play crucial roles in trying to dismiss Zadran early and disrupt Afghanistan’s batting line-up.
### Impact of Spinners on the Game
With the pitch in Sharjah expected to offer assistance to both pacers and spinners, the role of spin bowlers from both teams will be crucial in determining the outcome of the final. Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan, known for his accuracy and variations, will look to exploit the conditions and put pressure on Pakistan’s batsmen.
On the other hand, Pakistan’s Shadab Khan will also play a vital role in containing Afghanistan’s batting line-up. His ability to deceive batsmen with his variations and extract turn from the pitch could prove to be a game-changer in the final.
### Team Strategy and Approach
Both Pakistan and Afghanistan will need to carefully strategize their approach to the final. Pakistan, with a strong batting line-up led by Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam, will look to set a competitive total if they bat first. Their ability to build partnerships and accelerate in the death overs will be crucial in putting pressure on Afghanistan.
Afghanistan, on the other hand, will rely on their aggressive batting approach to chase down any target set by Pakistan. Players like Hazratullah Zazai and Rahmanullah Gurbaz will play key roles in providing a solid start to the innings and setting the platform for a successful chase.
### Final Prediction
While Pakistan may be considered the favorites heading into the final, Afghanistan has shown throughout the series that they are a formidable opponent capable of springing surprises. The final is likely to be a closely contested match with both teams giving it their all to lift the trophy.
Ultimately, it will come down to which team can handle the pressure better on the day and execute their plans effectively. Fans can expect a thrilling encounter between Pakistan and Afghanistan, with the potential for twists and turns until the last ball is bowled. Stay tuned for an exciting finale to the UAE T20 Tri-Series at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
